The Academy Awards fallout has just taken another turn. Infamously,King RichardstarWill Smithsmacked comedian Chris Rock over a joke made about Jada Pinkett Smith at theOscarson Sunday night. The situation has generated backlash with many calling for Smith to face consequences for getting violent with Rock, regardless of what the stand-up comic might have said. The Academy had noted in statements that they condemned Smith’s actions and had launched a formal investigation into the incident.
Smith was facing suspension or even expulsion as a result of this investigation, but the Best Lead Actor winner is looking to walk away from the Academy on his own before it gets to that point. He released a statement published byThe Hollywood Reporterannouncing that he’s officially resigning from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The actor’s statement, which you’re able to read below, cites the number of people affected by the situation, which goes far beyond Chris Rock. As Smith explains:
“I have directly responded to the Academy’s disciplinary hearing notice, and I will fully accept any and all consequences for my conduct. My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were shocking, painful, and inexcusable. The list of those I have hurt is long and includes Chris, his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all those in attendance, and global audiences at home.
I betrayed the trust of the Academy. I deprived other nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. I am heartbroken. I want to put the focus back on those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the incredible work it does to support creativity and artistry in film. So, I am resigning from membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and will accept any further consequences the Board deems appropriate. Change takes time and I am committed to doing the work to ensure that I never again allow violence to overtake reason.”
Related:Jim Carrey Felt ‘Sickened’ by Will Smith’s Standing Ovation After Chris Rock Attack
Will Smith Reportedly Refused to Leave the Oscars
One of the complaints viewers have had with the Academy is how the situation was handled. While Will Smith smacking Chris Rock may not have been something that could have been anticipated, there has been backlash over allowing Smith to remain in the building and even accept a prestigious award after the attack. The Academy has since claimed in a statement that Smith was asked to leave after slapping Rock but thathe refused to do so. Even so, some will question why police or security couldn’t have intervened at that point, though that’s partly due to Rock declining to file criminal charges.
Rock will have up to six months to change his mind if he decides to move forward with a criminal complaint against Smith. Otherwise, the consequences will lie with the Academy. There are rumors that Smith could even have his Best Actor Oscar rescinded, so even if he has resigned from the Academy, there remain additional measures that could still be taken.
